Top-Rated Redding Rainbow Trout Fishing Trip

Reel in Trophy Trout on the Sac

Get ready to chase some of California's hardest-fighting fish on this guided rainbow trout adventure near Redding. We'll spend a full day on the legendary Sacramento River, where the cool flows from Shasta Dam create perfect conditions for trophy trout year-round. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip offers non-stop action and the chance to land the fish of a lifetime.

What's the Deal?

Hop aboard our 20-foot Jetcraft for a 7-hour fishing extravaganza on one of Northern California's premier trout rivers. We'll cruise the riffles and runs near Redding, using our jet outboard to access shallow honey holes other boats can't reach. I'll set you up with all the gear you need and share local knowledge to put you on fish. The Sac is known for its hard-fighting rainbows, and we often hook into wild fish in the 16-22 inch range. Don't be surprised if a bruiser in the 5-10 pound class bends your rod, too!

This trip is perfect for anglers of all levels. Beginners will get hands-on instruction and plenty of chances to hook up, while experienced fishermen can test their skills against some of the smartest trout around. The action is usually pretty steady, so be ready for a workout! We practice catch-and-release to keep the fishery healthy, but you'll go home with plenty of fish stories and photos.

Rigging Up for Rainbows

We'll use a mix of techniques depending on the conditions and where the fish are holding. Most days, we'll drift fish with egg patterns, small nymphs, or San Juan worms under indicators. When the bite is on, we might switch to stripping streamers or swinging flies on the fly rod. If you're new to these methods, don't worry – I'll walk you through everything step-by-step.

Our Jetcraft is decked out with top-notch gear, including G.Loomis rods and Shimano reels spooled with high-quality line. We use barbless hooks to make releases quick and easy on the fish. I'll have a selection of proven flies and lures, but feel free to bring any favorites you want to try. Don't forget to pack sunscreen, polarized glasses, and layers – the weather can change quickly on the river.

Target Species: Rainbow Trout

The Sacramento River's rainbow trout are the stuff of angling legend. These fish are wild, native, and absolutely gorgeous. They're known for their acrobatic fights, often leaping clear out of the water multiple times during a battle. The average fish runs 16-22 inches, but we regularly hook into monsters pushing 5-10 pounds or more.

What makes these rainbows so special is their year-round availability and incredible strength. The cold water released from Shasta Dam keeps them active and feeding even in the heat of summer. In the fall and winter, we often catch some of the biggest fish of the year as they bulk up for spawning season.

One of the coolest things about Sac River rainbows is their coloration. These fish often have a deep red lateral line and cheeks that put stocked trout to shame. Their spots are dark and pronounced, sometimes extending all the way onto their fins. When you're lucky enough to land one, take a moment to admire its beauty before we safely release it to fight another day.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

The Sacramento River near Redding is a trout angler's paradise for good reason. The fishing is consistently good year-round, with opportunities to catch trophy-sized fish on any given day. The scenery is stunning, with the river carving its way through rocky canyons and lush forests. You might spot bald eagles, river otters, or even the occasional bear along the banks.

What really sets this fishery apart is the quality of the fish themselves. These aren't your average put-and-take stockers – we're talking about wild, native trout that have evolved in this river for thousands of years. They're smart, strong, and absolutely beautiful. Even seasoned anglers are often surprised by how hard these fish fight and how challenging they can be to fool.

The variety of fishing techniques we can use keeps things interesting, too. One day we might be drifting tiny nymphs under indicators, the next we could be stripping big streamers for aggressive strikes. There's always something new to learn, and the river keeps you on your toes.

Time to Book Your Spot

Ready to test your skills against some of California's finest trout? This full-day trip on the Sacramento River is the perfect way to experience one of the West's premier rainbow trout fisheries. Whether you're a local looking to improve your game or a visitor wanting to check this legendary river off your bucket list, you're in for a treat.

Remember, we run trips year-round, so you can plan your adventure whenever it works best for you. Spring and fall are especially popular, but there's really no bad time to fish the Sac. With a maximum of two anglers per trip, you'll get plenty of personal attention and time on the water.

Don't miss out on your chance to tangle with some of the hardest-fighting trout you'll ever encounter. Book your spot now, and let's make some lasting memories on the mighty Sacramento River. Tight lines!